Bishop Mario Grech recently nominated Fr Gerard Buhagiar of Xaghra, previously assistant head at the Minor Seminary in Gozo, as vice-rector of Ta' Pinu Basilica.

Fr Gerard, born on June 24, 1962, received his primary education at Xaghra primary school and later attended the Sacred Heart Seminary for Minors.

In 1980, he joined the Major Seminary and was ordained priest by Bishop Nikol Cauchi at the Cathedral on June 27, 1987. He went to Rome to further his studies while occupying the post of vicar at the parish of the Nativity.

He obtained his licentiate and doctorate in Theology after having specialised in Marian studies from the Università Pontificia Marianum in Rome. He obtained a diploma in Liturgy from the Liturgical Pontifical Institute of St Anselm, and another diploma in Christian Archaeology.

In July 1996, Bishop Cauchi offered him the post of vice-rector of the Major Seminary. At the same time he also taught at the seminary for minors, of which he was assistant headmaster.

For some years, Fr Buhagiar was working in the Catechism office and San Lawrenz parish, and was editor of the publication Madonna Ta' Pinu.

He is the son of Nazzareno and M'Anne née Camilleri.